Smart, Ericsson, Meta joint network optimizations deliver major improvements in Messenger call quality across the Philippines

Photo shows Smart, Ericsson, and Meta representatives Paivand Ahmadi (Head of Optimization, Ericsson Philippines), Ramani Annamalay (Head of Operations, Ericsson Philippines), Rudyard Ranjo (AVP, Network Service Operations, Smart), Arda Cetiner (Country Manager, Ericsson Philippines), Christopher Viray (Senior Manager, Network Service Operations, Smart), Hans Alvarez (VP, Network Design and Engineering, Smart), Vinod Samarawickrama (Global Program Head, Network Infrastructure and Ecosystems), and Sen Visalda (Optimization Program Manager, Ericsson Philippines)

Millions of Messenger users in the Philippines are now enjoying clearer, more reliable voice and video calls, following a joint network enhancement effort collaboration between Smart Communications, Ericsson, and Meta’s team in the Philippines. By optimizing network performance at scale, the partners reduced call disruptions and delays—making everyday Messenger conversations across the Philippines smoother and more dependable.

This collaboration has led to clear improvements in call quality over Messenger, resulting in a much better voice and video calling experience for millions of Filipinos nationwide. Additionally, these benefits were felt across several calling apps, not just Messenger.
The enhanced network performance was enabled by Ericsson and Smart fine-tuning key technical parameters in Smart's live network in the Luzon area of the Philippines.

The collaboration delivered major performance improvements. Messenger calls now have less delay at 24.6% lower RTT or round-trip time, fewer interruptions at 55% lower packet loss, and clearer video at nearly 20% higher video bitrate, with users across the Philippines experiencing more stable and reliable real-time conversations.

“This initiative with Ericsson and Meta aligns with our commitment to delivering exceptional service quality to all our customers. These improvements mean their video calls over Messenger are sharper, and they can enjoy continuous calls with their loved ones. We are grateful for this opportunity to turn innovation into everyday excellence, to the benefit of our customers,” according to Debbie M. Hu, head of network at Smart Communications.

“We’re proud to work in close partnership with Smart and Meta to optimize network performance and deliver clearer, more reliable service across the Philippines. This initiative demonstrates how focused global technical expertise, decades of trusted telco leadership, and platform-level coordination can come together to produce tangible, customer-facing improvements — clearer audio, fewer interruptions, and a more dependable calling experience that Filipinos can rely on every day,” says Daniel Ode, Head of Singapore, Philippines and Brunei, Ericsson.
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The resulting improved Messenger experience underscores how strong collaboration between a network operator, technology partner, and digital platform can deliver real, everyday improvements for users on live networks. It is also aligned with Smart and its parent company PLDT’s drive to raise the standard of connectivity for millions of Filipinos across the country and beyond.